While your toddler is out of the baby sleep stage, he also requires enough sleep to grow and replenish all the energy he is expending. As you also transition your child to sleeping in his own bed, he may begin to experience trouble staying asleep or in going to bed in the first place.
Significance
Toddlers require sleep in order to recharge their minds and bodies after a day of playing and exploring. Toddlers have a more significant "sleep drive" when compared with adults, according to Baby Center. This means that they may not be able to stay awake as long as an adult. Instead, their bodies require at least one nap, possibly more, during the day in order to perform at their best.
Time Frame
While each toddler has his own unique sleep needs, most children between the ages of one and two require between 10 and 13 hours of sleep per night, according to KidsHealth. This time frame represents a transition from the six- to 12-month period where your child should sleep for at least 14 hours. As your child grows out of the toddler period, he will begin to require slightly less sleep--roughly between 10 to 12 hours.
Size
While your child may need between 10 and 13 hours of sleep per day, this does not necessarily mean that this sleep will be all at night. Your child may respond better to taking one to two naps per day and then sleeping the remainder of the time at night. Toddlers are more genetically predisposed to break up the day with napping periods, a habit that can continue well up to age five, according to Baby Center. However, try to establish a sleeping routine that works for both you and your child. Children thrive best when on a routine, and this can decrease protests when it is time to go to sleep.
Solution
If you are having a hard time convincing your child to go to sleep, create a soothing nightly routine that helps your child know when to expect when it is time to go to sleep, according to Parents.com. Examples include reading, cuddling or giving your child a bath before bedtime. Playing soothing music as your child goes to sleep also may help her to drift off more peacefully and help her to feel less alone--a common concern for toddlers.
Warning
Signs that your child may not be getting a sufficient amount of sleep include being very cranky or consistently being in a 'bad' mood, according to KidsHealth. Children who do not get enough sleep also may not follow simple instructions and will have difficulty concentrating. If you notice these symptoms, arrange for an extra nap or longer sleep time for your child. If crankiness improves, adjust your child's sleep schedule to ensure he sleeps more.
